Weeknight Red Beans and Rice

DIRECTIONS

• Heat 1 tbsp oil or butter in medium non-stick pan (that has a lid).
• Add rice and stir in the hot oil until most of the kernels are opaque.
• Add water and bring to a boil.
• Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
• (If using brown rice, increase water and cooking time slightly) Meanwhile dice vegetables.
• Heat 2 tbsp oil or butter in a large non-stick pan or Dutch oven.
• Add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery and garlic.
• Saute until tender.
• Add the sliced turkey smoked sausage and saute until heated through and slightly browned.
• Add pepper, seasoning and bay leaf.
• Continue to stir and saute for about three minutes.
• Add diced tomatoes and canned beans (do not drain).
• Add salt, pepper and hot sauce to taste.
• Simmer about 15 minutes, then remove bay leaf.
• Place about 3/4 cup rice in the bottom of a soup bowl.
• Cover with red bean mixture.
• Serve with French bread and pass more hot sauce.